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DUPLICITY

1. PUNISHER: WAR ZONE:

Sigh! I’m getting very tired of origin movies. Punisher in 2004 had Thomas Jane as the Marvel Comic Books character whose family is killed and who wages war on the baddies for revenge. This time we get the same set up with Ray Stevenson as the title character. But both are a revisit of a 1989 Punisher film which also brought us the origin story. Not much to recommend here unless you’re a fan of mindless violence – not that there’s anything wrong with that. Rated 14A.

2. ELEGY:

Ben Kingsley and Penelope Cruz star in this erotically-charged story of a professor and his student. It’s an old story, but what makes this worth watching is Cruz’s performance. Her Oscar for Vicki Christina Barcelona attracted a lot of attention, but to see her real acting chops, they are on display here. I didn’t like the movie much, but it’s a good example of how an actress can really demonstrate her skills. Rated 14A.

3. GOAL II: LIVING THE DREAM:

For soccer aficionados, Goal, from three years ago, was the definitive soccer film. This sequel looks at Real Madrid battling Newcastle as personal issues get in the way – marriage and children are real chokers for soccer players. Good soccer action and some good family values make this safe for most soccer players and their parents. Rated PG.

4. RICK’S PICK: GOAL II:

Real soccer action is the featured star here and it plays well for those who appreciate and enjoy the sport.

REMEMBER THE TITANS (2000):This is to high school football what Goal II is to soccer. How can a nine-year-old movie be considered a classic? Easy – it has great tension and drama, it will engage you every minute … and there isn’t a single swear word or sex scene in the entire film – and you don’t realize that until you’re all done. Denzel Washington stars.

RACE TO WITCH MOUNTAIN

A good family film from Disney that will offend no one and will engage tweens.

MISS MARCH

A terrible spring break film that should offend everyone – even Hugh Hefner who has a cameo.